Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken
01 -
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
03 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Cowboy Butter
05 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter
06 -
4 garlic cloves, minced
07 -
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
08 -
Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon
09 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, or more to taste
10 -
1 tsp paprika
11 -
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or 1 tsp dried parsley
12 -
1/2 tsp thyme (optional)
13 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Sauce
14 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
15 -
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
16 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
17 -
1 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
→ Pasta
18 -
12 oz linguine, cooked al dente and drained
19 -
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
# Instructions:
01 -
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
02 -
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice and zest, red pepper flakes, paprika, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it bubble for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
03 -
Add chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add Parmesan cheese and cream cheese (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
04 -
Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked linguine and toss to combine. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water, a little at a time, if the sauce appears too thick. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.
05 -
Garnish with extra parsley, chili flakes, and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
# Notes:
01 -
Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for additional vegetables.
02 -
For extra heat, mix in a dash of hot sauce or additional cayenne.
03 -
Stir in shredded mozzarella for a cheesier texture.